I have known Carol for over 30 years. She was such a joyful and positive person who was a true inspiration.

It feels trite to try and put down something in words and it feels worse still to allow our perception of the attitude of someone towards the end of their life define decades of memories. Nonetheless, where some might hide away in the face of devastating diagnoses Carol faced her challenges with unremitting strength and optimism. She never seemed to allow resentment or self-pity to colour her thinking.

Her celebratory Flower Power garden party was a true testament to that joyful spirit. I will forever be moved by memories of that wonderful day when  she allowed us to celebrate her life with us and did not allow us to mourn the fact that it was nearing its end. 

It would be wonderful to think that we can all learn from her example - to live our lives with her optimistic and upbeat approach, to rejoice in all life has to give us and to not be afraid as it ebbs away.